The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has launched a scathing critique of the latest list of ambassadorial nominees submitted by President Bola Tinubu to the Senate. In a strongly-worded statement released on his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Monday, December 2, 2025, the former governor of Anambra State expressed profound disappointment with the quality of individuals selected to represent Nigeria internationally.
Obi's Stinging Rebuke: 'Shocking' Names and Mediocrity
Peter Obi did not mince words in his assessment, stating that several names on the list of 32 nominees were outright "shocking." He framed the selections as a direct reflection of what he termed the current administration's growing tolerance for substandard leadership.
"Yes, some of the names being paraded to represent us as ambassadors globally are shocking," Obi wrote. "But with a leadership that has allowed mediocrity, corruption, and impunity to rise to the top, who else did you expect them to choose?"
His criticism comes amidst growing public scrutiny of the nominees, which includes prominent political figures such as former presidential aide Reno Omokri, ex-INEC chairman Mahmood Yakubu, former aviation minister Femi Fani-Kayode, former governors Okezie Ikpeazu and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, and Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, among others.
A Nation in Crisis vs. Political Celebrations
Beyond the ambassadorial list, Obi broadened his critique to condemn the perceived disconnect between Nigeria's ruling class and the severe hardships facing ordinary citizens. He accused the political elite of indulging in self-congratulation and extravagance while the country grapples with insecurity and economic despair.
"When our people are being killed, our leaders are busy hosting dinners. When children are being snatched from their schools, the political class is celebrating and dancing," he lamented.
He specifically referenced reports of the First Lady hosting dinners for Senators amidst widespread kidnappings and killings. Obi argued that this behaviour is unacceptable when families struggle to afford basic meals and the nation faces existential threats. "This is not governance. This is not leadership. And this is certainly not the Nigeria we deserve," he concluded.
Presidency Defends List as Senate Prepares for Screening
The Presidency has moved to dismiss the mounting criticisms. Ademola Oshodi, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and Protocol, defended the list, stating it reflects President Tinubu's best judgment. He asserted the President's prerogative to select individuals he believes can effectively advance his administration's foreign policy objectives.
This defence has not satisfied all observers. Notably, Joe Keshi, a former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, also raised concerns, suggesting that some nominees lack the requisite profile for diplomatic service.
The list, submitted to the Senate on November 29, 2025, is expected to undergo screening by the upper legislative chamber in the coming days. It follows an earlier, smaller set of three career nominees—Kayode Are, Aminu Dalhatu, and Ayodele Oke—who were praised for their professional backgrounds in diplomacy and security.
The stark contrast between the reception of the two lists has further fueled the political and public debate over the qualifications and intentions behind President Tinubu's ambassadorial appointments.
